Critical Perspectives in Informal Learning

This course explores informal learning in multiple settings including art museums, historic houses, children’s museums, and science centers. Students will consider definitions of, and goals for informal learning. Together we will investigate questions regarding the possibilities and challenges of informal learning and examine philosophical and practical questions such as: what are our goals – programmatic and pedagogic – as educators? How do we meet the needs of diverse audiences? How do we develop inclusive audience practices? This course will give students a firm grounding in the history and philosophy of informal learning as well as explore contemporary issues in the field.